Venture 17 Information, Review, Specs

The Venture 17 emerged from MacGregor Yacht Corp.'s Costa Mesa, California operations, during a period when the company was establishing itself as a pioneer in accessible sailing. Launched in 1968, it was part of the "Venture" line, which preceded the transition of all models to the "MacGregor" name after 1969. The boat remained in production until 1974. Designed by Roger MacGregor himself, the Venture 17 reflects his broader goal of creating boats that were not only fun to sail but also incredibly easy to transport and manage, directly addressing common barriers to boat ownership. This ethos of versatility and affordability was central to MacGregor's manufacturing philosophy during this era. While specific design philosophies for the Venture 17 itself are not extensively documented, it aligns with MacGregor's reputation for producing "trailerable power-sailers" that blended sailing attributes with the convenience of easy transport. No significant variations like MkI or MkII versions or tall rig options are widely reported for the Venture 17 during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Venture 17, with a length overall of 17.33 feet and a waterline length of 15 feet, is a lightweight monohull designed for ease of handling and trailerability. Its light displacement of 900 lbs and a modest ballast of 270 lbs suggest it is intended for light to moderate conditions, rather than heavy offshore sailing. While its small size means that traditional performance ratios are less applicable for a detailed analysis, the boat's design points to a nimble and responsive character.

Owners often describe the Venture 17 as a suitable starter boat, particularly for learning to sail on lakes and in light to moderate wind conditions. It is generally considered easy to sail, offering a forgiving platform for new sailors. Its hull speed is approximately 5.19 knots. The wing keel design provides a minimum draft of 1.42 feet, expanding to a maximum draft of 4.5 feet, which enhances its versatility for shallow water access and beaching, while offering some stability under sail. Reviews suggest it performs adequately for its intended purpose as a recreational day cruiser or weekender, but it is not built for rigorous offshore conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Venture 17 is basic, designed to offer rudimentary shelter and overnighting capabilities for its compact size. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the boat is generally considered to offer limited standing room. The typical interior arrangement usually includes a V-berth forward, which can serve as sleeping space, and potentially two additional berths in the main cabin, making it practical for two people, though advertised as having cruising room for four.

Descriptions and videos often show a simple, open cabin with minimal amenities. The finish quality is generally described as lightly built and not elaborately finished, reflecting its design as an affordable, entry-level vessel. Materials would typically include fiberglass for structural components, with some wood trim for a more finished look. Storage is limited, usually comprising small compartments under berths. Ventilation is typically provided by a main companionway hatch. The interior is functional rather than luxurious, prioritizing the boat's primary purpose as an accessible trailer-sailor.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Venture 17 generally praise it as an excellent first sailboat, particularly for those looking for an affordable and trailerable option for inland waters or protected coastal areas. Its ease of sailing and simple systems are frequently highlighted as strengths, making it a forgiving platform for learning the sport. The ability to trailer the boat easily is a significant advantage, allowing owners to explore various sailing locations without the need for permanent dockage. Owners appreciate its budget-friendly nature, often acquiring them for modest prices.

However, owners also frequently note certain weaknesses. The construction is often described as lightly built and not extensively finished, suggesting it's not designed for heavy weather or extended offshore voyages. Some common issues or areas for maintenance mentioned by owners include the need for cabin renovations in older models and potential problems with fittings. Despite these points, there is an enthusiastic community of owners who appreciate the Venture 17 for its unique blend of accessibility and recreational sailing potential, often undertaking restoration projects to extend the life of these classic small cruisers.